If you unplug everything (tv, radio, lights) can that save you money? or would it not matter?

Question

If you unplug everything (tv, radio, lights) can that save you money? or would it not matter?

Answer 1

On Good Morning America they had someone on telling how to save on bills.  They said unplug all electrical plugs that were not in use because they still use electricity.  I don't think they would have said that on national tv unless it is true!!!  I know a lot of things said on tv are not true but why lie about this. Try it and see.  I did and my bill did go down some!!!

Answer 2

Some things matter, some don't.

Lights aren't going to matter.  They are either on or off.  

Some electronic equipment uses electricity even when turned on.  As an example, the stereo system in our living room draws 11 watts even when it is turned off.  We rarely use it.  If I left it plugged in for a year, it would cost me about $8 for the year (for nothing).  By unplugging it (no cost to me), I save $8 and a tiny bit of mother nature.

Lots of things associated with computers use power even when turned off.  Also, there are many items that people never bother to turn off.  I have been in the bad habit of leaving my computer on 24 hours/day.  I calculated that if I turn off the entire power strip with all the peripheals for 12 hours per day when I am not home, I will save $50/year.

I still want to investigate my TV, VCR, DVD, etc.  I'm pretty sure that I can save about $100/year by being smarter about these things.  It's not a lot of money but it's a nice feeling to really understand the cost of things.  Also, imagine a world where everyone cared about not wasting our resources.

If you are more interested in this, you can read about or buy a power meter.  There is one called a "Kill-a-watt" that is surprisingly well made for a very reasonable price (you can find it for about $25 including shipping).

Answer 3

Sure! You can save on the light bill, if they have indicator lights on them (on standby or power on).  You won't save a lot but you'll save a little.  If the weather is nice, you can throw the main breaker and save a lot more.  I get me electric bill down to $13.00 a month in the springtime by doing this.

Answer 4

yes up to 10%, some tvs when turned off just go into standby mode, meaning its on, just not fully.

Answer 5

It won't make any difference.  If the tv, radio, lights, etc aren't on, they are not burning any electricity.  The current will just stop at the switch instead of at the wall socket.

Answer 6

yeh if could save you allot depending on how long you do it for.